Do you jump to conclusions? I think we all do, at least once in awhile. In a communication workshop I attended years ago I learned the phrase "assume positive intent". In job search, assuming positive intent can mean many things, but most importantly, it is a reminder to be polite and respectful.
Here are some scenarios that arise again and again and push job seekers to assume- sometimes the worst.
- I interviewed for a job last week and haven't heard back.
- I've networked with lots of people but never get additional contact names.
- I submitted my resume and they haven't called me yet.
- I am a perfect fit for this job, why aren't they calling me.
- I haven't gotten a job yet because I am old. Or no one is hiring older workers.
- I don't have any experience to put on my resume or LinkedIn profile, I just graduated.
- I've registered with agencies, but they haven't called me.
- I've interviewed multiple times at this company, why are they doing this to me?
If you have ever thought any of these things, you probably aren't alone. It is easy to get discouraged and frustrated. Never play the victim. You are the owner and driver of your career and job search.
Having control means figuring out the real reason behind your question or concern. Instead of assuming, ask the dreaded question either of yourself, the interviewer or people you trust.
There are things you need to understand about companies and agencies.
1) Every company has their own method and process for hiring. Their time clock is not the same as yours. If you do not know their process, have you asked?
2) Placement agencies and recruiters work with the best of the best job seekers. They get paid by the company for putting the right person in the right spot. They do not have to work with everyone that walks through their doors or submits a resume.
3) No one has to read your full cover letter and both pages of your resume. They may take time if it captures their attention or they may not. If your phone isn't ringing, your written materials aren't working.
4) Businesses want to make money. They want the best hiring value for their investment. They can offer less because the market is flooded with talent.
A colleague shared with me an email she got from a "frustrated" (and that is being nice) candidate. The employer wanted to interview more people. That is their right. The candidate wrote an email message something like "I wish I would have known before the ad came out; what a slap in the face." And by the way, the candidate that wrote it was not new to the workforce.
Are you jumping to conclusions and letting your emotions get the best of you? The end result could be detrimental.
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